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Grenade Attack Suspect Falls During Police Operation In Matalam
Photo credit: Matalam Police
The suspect behind the grenade-throwing incident in Barangay Dalapitan on January 1 is no longer at large after police carried out a hot pursuit operation in Matalam, Cotabato.
The Matalam Municipal Police Station, led by Chief of Police PLTCOL Arniel Cagud Melocotones, confirmed that officers tracked the suspect — known as “Can” — to Barangay Kilada. When police attempted to arrest him, he allegedly pulled out a handgun and fired at the responding team, which prompted officers to return fire.
At the scene, police recovered a .45 caliber pistol along with its magazine, as well as several fired cartridge cases. During processing at Babol General Hospital, investigators also found a small sachet of suspected shabu and improvised glass tubing believed to be used as drug paraphernalia. The seized illegal drugs were estimated to have a value of around ₱1,360.
Police said this development brings important closure to the grenade incident and highlights how quick coordination, witness cooperation, and continuous ground pursuit helped them locate and confront the suspect without further harm to the community.
Authorities added that they will continue tightening security measures in the area and working closely with residents to prevent similar acts of violence. The Matalam police reiterated their commitment to keeping the town safe and ensuring that justice is served for everyone affected.
The Matalam Municipal Police Station, led by Chief of Police PLTCOL Arniel Cagud Melocotones, confirmed that officers tracked the suspect — known as “Can” — to Barangay Kilada. When police attempted to arrest him, he allegedly pulled out a handgun and fired at the responding team, which prompted officers to return fire.
At the scene, police recovered a .45 caliber pistol along with its magazine, as well as several fired cartridge cases. During processing at Babol General Hospital, investigators also found a small sachet of suspected shabu and improvised glass tubing believed to be used as drug paraphernalia. The seized illegal drugs were estimated to have a value of around ₱1,360.
Police said this development brings important closure to the grenade incident and highlights how quick coordination, witness cooperation, and continuous ground pursuit helped them locate and confront the suspect without further harm to the community.
Authorities added that they will continue tightening security measures in the area and working closely with residents to prevent similar acts of violence. The Matalam police reiterated their commitment to keeping the town safe and ensuring that justice is served for everyone affected.
Jan 2, 2026
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